Career roadmap
How to Become a Cultural Studies Professor
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as a cultural studies professor, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become a cultural studies professor: (1) earn a bachelor’s, (2) learn languages, (3) complete a Ph.D., (4) publish, (5) get hired. Most people need about 6–8 years after a bachelor’s. BLS lists “doctoral or professional degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become a cultural studies professor
Earn a bachelor’s
Related field.
Learn languages
For area studies.
Complete a Ph.D.
Research.
Publish
Articles or a book.
Get hired
Faculty role.
Education and training requirements
A Ph.D. in area, ethnic or cultural studies, or a related discipline, is typical.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Doctoral or professional degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | 6–8 years after a bachelor’s |
Certifications and licenses
- Ph.D.: Doctoral degree.
- Language proficiency: For area studies.
- Teaching certificate: Optional.
- Research fellowships: Funding.
Skills to build now
Start with interdisciplinary research, historical analysis, and qualitative methods, and practice cultural sensitivity and facilitation. Learning the cultural studies professor vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Graduate Instructor: Train.
- Assistant Professor: Tenure track.
- Associate Professor: Tenure.
- Professor or Program Director: Lead programs.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Cultural Studies Professor training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
How long does it take to become a cultural studies professor?
Most people need about 6–8 years after a bachelor’s of training. A Ph.D. in area, ethnic or cultural studies, or a related discipline, is typical.
Do you need a degree to be a cultural studies professor?
Usually. BLS lists a doctoral degree as typical for postsecondary teachers. Universities generally require a Ph.D., while community colleges often hire instructors with a master’s degree.
What certifications are available for cultural studies professors?
Common credentials include Ph.D., Language proficiency, Teaching certificate, and Research fellowships. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 25-1062 (Area, ethnic, and cultural studies teachers, postsecondary).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Area, ethnic, and cultural studies teachers, postsecondary (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.